Zhangjiabang is the first of Shanghai ’ s eight planned “ green wedges ”, and will become the city ’ s largest public park . A catalyst for ecological and urban renewal , the park creates an unprecedented amount of wetland and woodland habitat that redefines the natural environment in a city whose residents have increasingly fewer opportunities to experience nature . Focusing on the existing canal and its tributaries , the landscape strategy improves water quality and rebuilds the biodiversity of the region ’ s aquatic ecosystems . Air quality and thermal comfort are also enhanced through careful spatial configurations utilizing landform , planting strategies , waterbodies , and prevailing winds to create microclimates that contrast Shanghai ’ s stifling urban heat island . Adjacent development is also integrated , reconnecting the urban fabric on either side of the park . New transit lines that link Zhangjiabang to downtown Shanghai establish urban entrances to the park that provide an opportunity for mixed-use destinations influenced by their adjacency to the park .
MERIT AWARD / BSLA
Analysis and Planning
SASAKI ASSOCIATES , INC .
Zhangjiabang Park Master Plan Shanghai , China
Boston Society of Landscape Architects Fieldbook
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